EEAA welcomes Coalition’s Trade and Investment ministry

The Exhibition and Events Association of Australasia (EEAA) has welcomed the coalition policy to establish a Foreign Affairs and Trade portfolio, paving the way for more engagement between the business events sector, Austrade and Tourism Australia.

EEAA Chief Executive, Joyce DiMascio said that with so many exhibitions and events delivered in industry sectors of agriculture, financial services, mining and resources, manufacturing, tourism, retail and wholesale services, the way was being paved for the exhibition industry to piggy-back the opportunities through the proposed Ministry for Trade and Investment.

“Attracting international buyers especially from China, India and other countries would be an opportunity that the Association would seek to leverage on behalf of its members.”

“The members of the EEAA deliver events that showcase Australian-made products, innovation and technology. We look forward to leveraging the “sales rep” role identified for the Minister for Trade and Investment and how this can support the 24,000 companies who exhibit at Australian exhibitions.” she said.

EEAA President, Domenic Genua said: “We welcome the fresh perspective offered by both Bob Baldwin and Julie Bishop in relation to promoting Australian businesses to international buyers. What we need is a clear protocol for how this can happen.

“Our members would be delighted to host international buyers to expos such as the Sydney International Boat Show and many other trade events. This is already done in the tourism sector through trade expos such as Australian Tourism Exchange.” he said.

“We hope that the policy platform announced today offers the opportunity to build sales missions to Australia from international buyers and not just focus on road-shows or representing Australia at “business fairs” internationally. Both platforms are equally important.” Mr Genua said.

EEAA was disappointed that no specific funds had been allocated to support the procurement of business events something which the Business Events Council of Australia would continue to focus on in its advocacy campaign.